Electric Castle 2026 lands at Banffy Castle in Bontida, near Cluj, from 16 to 19 July 2026. It is a 24 hour festival 30 km out of town, so people arrive with the same practical questions about transport, the cashless wristband, camping and what to bring. Here are the checked answers.
Frequently asked questions
When and where is Electric Castle 2026?
Electric Castle 2026 runs from 16 to 19 July 2026 at Banffy Castle in Bontida, near Cluj-Napoca. It is the 12th edition, known as EC12.
Who is headlining Electric Castle 2026?
Announced headliners include The Cure, Twenty One Pilots and Teddy Swims, alongside a long and growing lineup. Check the official site for the full, up to date bill.
How far is it from Cluj and how do I get there?
Bontida is about 30 km from Cluj-Napoca. Most people use the dedicated EC buses, the EC train, or regular CFR trains. Driving and parking on site are not recommended.
How do the EC buses and train work?
Non-stop EC buses run day and night from points in Cluj such as Iulius Mall and Expo Transilvania, and there is an EC train from Cluj with a short connecting bus. A one-way ticket is about 35 lei, seats are limited, so book online early.
What time does it open and close?
The festival opens at 2 PM on Thursday 16 July and runs until 8 AM on Monday 20 July. The EC Village campsite opens earlier, around midday on Wednesday 15 July.
Is Electric Castle cashless? How do I top up?
Yes, it is fully cashless with an RFID wristband. You create an account, register your ticket on the cashless platform, then top up online or at on-site points, in multiples of 10 lei.
Can I get my leftover money back?
Yes. After the festival you request a refund of the unused balance by bank transfer through the official refund form. Refunds are not given in cash.
Is there an age limit? Can minors attend?
Children up to 7 enter free with a ticketed parent or guardian. Kids aged 8 to 15 need a parent present with a signed statement, and teens aged 16 to 18 need written parental permission and get a wristband that limits access to indoor and club areas. No alcohol is served under 18.
What can I bring and what is banned?
You can bring a backpack, a sealed plastic water bottle, sunscreen, hand sanitiser, prescription medicine in its original packaging, a camera, flags and a selfie stick. Banned items include outside food and drink, alcohol, glass, knives and weapons, pets, umbrellas, drones, speakers and bikes or scooters.
Are there lockers and phone charging?
Yes, you can rent a locker to store your things and charge your phone, and you can book one in advance. There are charging lockers in the EC Village campsite too.
Where do people stay? Is there camping?
Many book a hotel or rental in Cluj-Napoca, while others stay on site at the EC Village campsite with their own tent or a pre-pitched one. Homestays in Bontida exist but book up far in advance.
What is the food like?
There are several food courts with a wide mix, from traditional Romanian dishes to pizza, sushi, burgers, Asian and grilled food, plus vegan options and desserts. It is cashless, so you pay with your wristband.
What is the weather like and what should I wear?
July days are warm, about 27 to 30 degrees, and nights cool to roughly 15 to 20. Pack something warm for after dark, a rain layer, and sturdy backup shoes, since the grounds are not paved.
How much are tickets?
Prices rise in tiers as the festival gets closer, so earlier is cheaper. Check the official Electric Castle site for current passes, youth tickets and what each one includes.
Details checked against the official Electric Castle info at electriccastle.ro. Prices and lineup change each year, confirm on the official site.